Need More Energy?

With summer in full swing, it may feel like there aren't enough hours in the day to accomplish all the activities on your to-do list. Between work, vacations and social life, it's no wonder supermarket shelves are stocked with the latest energy drinks, caffeine-laden snacks and processed pills to get you through the day. While boosting your energy with a large iced mocha may seem like a good idea, it's much better for your body if you maintain a consistent level of energy the natural way. And it's easier to do than you think. In fact, Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners believe that a high energy level can be yours simply by following a healthy diet and lifestyle. Plus, the right herbal supplements can work with your body's natural energy system to support energy levels and heighten metabolism.*

When Tiredness Becomes Fatigue

Everybody gets tired. But some people are so tired, they're fatigued. Characterized by a feeling of extreme tiredness or overall exhaustion, fatigue may surface as a result of illness, lack of sleep, worry, boredom, lack of exercise or stress. According to WebMD, fatigue can be a sign of poor health and in some cases could be attributed to an underlying medical condition, such as thyroid disease, low levels of potassium, diabetes, kidney disease, depression or anxiety. If you're chronically fatigued, discuss your symptoms with your health professional. But if you're just "tired," here are a few suggestions for revving up your energy:

• Get your blood pumping - if you're stuck behind a desk all day, get up every couple of hours to stretch
• Just breathe - use deep breathing exercises to alleviate stress
• Catch your Zzz's - get at least seven hours of sleep per night
• Take action - reduce stress by getting to the source of it
• Have fun with food - Learn how to create clean, healthy and delicious meals*

The Crash and Burn from Energy Drinks

Energy drinks are a hit with consumers of all ages. These neon-colored beverages have flashy packaging and famous endorsements to make them more appealing. But before you consume one of these, be sure to read the label, as many energy drinks contain excessive amounts of caffeine and sugar. WebMD confirms that the energy boost achieved by drinking a can of carbonated beverage is short-lived and may be accompanied by health complications like nervousness, irritability, insomnia, heart palpitations, nausea and increased blood pressure. Mayo Clinic's guide to caffeine content shows you just how much caffeine is in your favorite drink. Next time you stop by the store, choose unsweetened tea (you can add your own honey), kombucha or good old fashioned water.*

Moving Meditation

Described by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine as "moving meditation," Tai Chi is an exercise in which practitioners move their bodies slowly, gently and with awareness, while breathing deeply. Like yoga, tai chi may help you regain energy by allowing you to focus on letting go of stress and challenging your body with flowing movements. In fact, Health notes that there are certain yoga moves that may boost energy by targeting your adrenal glands and expanding the chest so that the lungs can take in more oxygen. Prefer a more sweat-inducing workout? The Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics medical journal published a study in 2008 that found inactive individuals could increase energy by 20 percent and decrease fatigue by 65 percent by participating in regular, low-intensity exercise like swimming, jogging, power walking or kickboxing. Although working out can make you feel tired while you're exercising, it actually creates energy in your body over time.*

You Are What You Eat

Did you know that an apple may provide you with a more sustainable energy boost than many prepackaged cereals? Plus, apples and other fruits have the nutrients your body needs to thrive, without the extra sugar and sodium your body can do without. So start your day off right with a hearty breakfast like cinnamon oatmeal sweetened with a ripe banana or a vegetable omelet. . Here are some other fresh and savory recipes to help kick-start your energy:*

• Broccoli in Hoisini Sauce with Parsnip "Rice"
• Mushroom Curry with Spiced Mango Chutney
• Fennel and Cherry Tomato Tart
• Spinach and Wild Mushroom Quiche
• Carrot and Orange Cake